The Energy, Water, Food, Nexus (EWF) represents a new way of thinking, analyzing, policymaking, and governing.  As a crosscutting issue, EWF, has dynamic economic, biophysical, political, and analytical facets.   In this class students will comprehensively explore the facets of the nexus issues at several levels using a blended learning method.  First, the theoretical concepts that underpin a nexus approach.  Second, an empirical analytical approach to understanding the nexus.   Third, a case study approach that frames the nexus as real-world problems and solutions. 

In this class, particular emphasis is placed on teamwork skills and reflective thinking and experiential knowledge. Feedback from both the course instructor and peers helps students to understand their shortcomings and to improve.

After completing a ZuWi II course the students are aware of the social and environmental context of economic activities. They have a holistic perspective, seeing both the economy and society as embedded in biophysical systems. They understand the effects business has on these dimensions. Throughout the course, students learn to take into account the impact of their later actions on society and the natural environment, their social responsibility and their contribution to a long-term sustainable development. Students develop the ability to consider ethical, social and environmental issues implied in their decisions in both private and professional spheres. They acquire skills such as self-reflection, openness and sensitivity to diversity, and understanding of complexity. They learn to conduct team projects effectively, to listen attentively and to present their ideas in convincing ways. Having completed the course, they are able to process information, to understand ideas and problems, to develop solutions and to communicate them to both expert and non-expert audiences.

1. Understand and describe the Energy, Water, Food Nexus at individual, national and regional/international scales.

2. Summarize, relay, and link knowledge of key theories for nexus issues (complex systems theory, resilience, circular economy).

3. Read and demonstrate comprehension of assigned texts.

4. Describe the historical governance structures and policies that apply to EWF. 

5. Identify and discuss challenges and obstacles to a nexus approach in general and for EWF.

6. Describe and compare methods used to assess EWF

7. Investigate and formulate one’s own opinion on a specific issue using an EWF nexus approach.

8. Recognize the SDGs.  

9. Develop knowledge of real world EWF institution in Vienna through experience.

Procedural Knowledge:

· Know how to prepare and present a website

· Know how to properly cite resources in a poster or paper

Furthermore, the course aims to contribute to the student's capacities and skills to:

• Analyse complex issues;
• Formulate and debate one’s point of view;
• Practice oral and written communication skills;
• Give and receive critical and constructive feedback in group discussions;
• Reflect on his/her own contribution and performance (self-reflection).

This is a Blended Learning Course of 8 sessions (6 of the sessions are in class, 2 are online).   Attendance at the 6 sessions is compulsory. 80% attendance is compulsory (WU regulations).

The course is taught with a blended learning format that integrates a mix of in-class and online learning experiences.  Topic knowledge and procedural knowledge is taught with in-class lectures, discussions and reflections on the readings, video lectures, peer learning by teaching and online materials.  Online elements are discussed in class and in online forums. Use of laptops, tablets or smart phones will be required on certain days as noted in the syllabus. 

Course enrollment is on the basis of "first-come, first-served” principle. If you have registered but cannot participate in the course, please de-register via LPIS during the registration period so that your course is available to students on the waiting list.

If there is a waiting list for enrollment in the course, students at the waiting list will be notified after the end of the enrollment period, and will be allocated to available places.

This procedure, however, is not to be understood as a place guarantee!

Sustainable Economics and Business I

Office hour every Monday afternoon from 14:30 – 15:30 or appointment by request.  Tel: + 43 1 313 36 5521

Other than as requested by the lecturer, please do not use your electronic devices in class.